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Ready, set, splash – NPDC’s outdoor pools are back for summer!

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PUBLISHED: 20 OCT 2025
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Summer’s officially on the way with Todd Energy Aquatic Centre leading the opening of NPDC’s outdoor pools at Labour Weekend.​

The community pools in Ōkato, Inglewood and Waitara are diving in from 15 November and Fitzroy Pool joins the lineup on 20 December, just in time for school holidays.​

“We’re gearing up for an awesome summer season,” says Blair Haase, NPDC Aquatics Programme Lead.

“Whether you’re looking for a safe and affordable outing with the kids, an adrenalin buzz on the hydro slides, or you’re just keen to cool off, our pools are ready.”​

Todd Energy Aquatic Centre’s outdoor pool is open seven days a week, with the on-site café, the newly completed Destination Kāwaroa playground next door, and the Coastal Walkway making Kāwaroa the ultimate splash-and-relax combo, perfect for a full day out. ​

NPDC aquatics staff have been working hard to make the pools more inclusive and accessible. Waitara has a brand-new changing room, Inglewood has new shade sails and along with Fitzroy, is getting a fresh pool liner to keep things watertight and welcoming.​

Safety is always in season. Child supervision ratios will be in place during peak times, with coloured wristbands helping staff and caregivers keep an eye on young swimmers. ​

Whether you’re chasing the biggest manu, setting a personal best on the inflatables, or just looking for a spot to chill, your pools are affordable and full of activities.​

Fast facts:​

  • NPDC’s Todd Energy Aquatic Centre (TEAC) is the largest aquatic complex in Taranaki and the only one in New Plymouth with a full-equipped fitness centre. ​
  • NPDC’s pools have about 410,000 visits each year, including about 370,000 to the TEAC.​
  • Find out more about what’s on offer and opening hours at Community swimming pools.​
  • The Destination Kāwaroa playground was completed in August and offers heaps of fun for the kids with a splash zone, pump track and much more.​
  • Check out all our parks and playgrounds at Parks, gardens and reserves

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Page last updated: 12:09pm Fri 20 March 2026

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